The interest of Liverpool, Manchester City and Spurs may be behind the reason that Rodriguez has hesitated over signing a new five-year deal, but, Sky Sports report, Southampton believe his focus is entirely on returning to action and are confident a contract extension will be signed.

Tottenham, however, are the favourites if he opts to reject a new deal and leave in the summer; given Rodriguez’s former Saints boss Mauricio Pochettino is in charge at White Hart Lane – and could tempt the forward into a reunion.

According to the report, Spurs and City are expected to make notable changes to their squad, and will be in the summer transfer market for homegrown talent.